Wisdom Tooth Lessons

I was given METRONIDAZOLE after the wisdom tooth extraction, supposedly to take it for 5 days. However, by the 3rd-4th day I experienced a bad (metallic) taste in the mouth, achy and painful muscles from the neck all the way to the back, and muscle cramping. Apparently METRONIDAZOLE has some pretty bad side effects, so please be aware if you are taking this medication.

Do not use a straw for the first few days. Sucking on a straw can loosen the blood clot and delay healing.

After the first day, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

Do not smoke for at least 24 hours after your surgery. The sucking motion can loosen the clot and delay healing. In addition, smoking decreases the blood supply and can bring germs and contaminants to the surgery area.

Avoid rubbing the area with your tongue or touching it with your fingers.